If Boston gets a healthy Smart does Milwaukee get a healthy Brogdon?
Brogdon's probably my favorite player these days.
But Geo Hill has been able to provide much of what The Frog brings. While Connaughton has stepped up into 7th man role.
But BOS doesn't have anyone to take on the Smart pitbull role (Rozier hasn't). And so it's been easier to expose Kyrie's weak D.
Also, I think Smart sets the tone, gets others to play hard, and takes on the heart&soul role. And he makes timely plays.
G4, MIL took the lead with their bench in the last 2:30 of the 3Q, with Anti-Greek sitting. Greek has gotten his, but Hill and Connaught have played a big role in winning these last 2 games in Baked Bean Town. And that's the kind of ish, a healthy Smart could put a stop to.
I will give Kyrie some credit. With his shot not falling -- I only saw a 2nd half replay and missed his 5-17 or whatever 1st half -- he started driving and getting fouled or kicking to open perimeter shooters. 3Q Celts missed 2 wide open 3's off Kyrie passes. Another good pass looked like it would end in a hockey-assist 3, but Jaylen Brown chose to drive on the 2nd pass. 4Q was similar.
I still think Kyrie should get everyone involved and run the team better. But he at least adjusted to his shooting slump.
Speaking of, Tatum was 0-11 on 3's for the series before making one in the 4Q. He looked somewhat out of sync.
Horford wasn't sharp in G4.
Haywire a no-show.